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3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - Printable Version

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3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - ArneHude - 2026-07-31

Hi everyone,

I wanted to briefly introduce you to my new DIY project: an outdoor enclosure for ferrite antennas, specifically designed for lightning detection stations.
The model is now available for free:

https://makerworld.com/de/models/3113734-blitzortung-ferrite-rod-antenna-outdoor-box

   
   

The enclosure is designed so that ferrite rods can be mounted securely, weatherproof*, and with minimal vibration.
Key features of my design:
Modular design – ferrite rods can be quickly swapped out or reoriented
Weatherproof* outer housing with optional sealing lips
Internal structure to isolate against minor vibrations
Easy to assemble – all parts are printable with minimal support structures
Cable grommets for clean, protected cable routing

I’m now using the enclosure myself at my station and am very satisfied with its stability. The * refers to the fact that the station is built with overlapping sections but does not include sealing rings, etc. More on this in the description.


Question for the community:
Is there interest in additional variants or alternative enclosure designs?
Examples I’m already considering:
  • A pipe clamp version to attach ferrite antennas directly to masts or pipes
  • A compact indoor version for ferrite rods in small rooms
  • A version with an integrated mount for loop antennas (in case anyone uses hybrid setups)
If you have any requests, ideas, or requirements—please let me know.
I’d design new variants directly in CAD and then make them available as printable models.
I look forward to your feedback and suggestions for improvement!
Best regards,
Arne

RE: 3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - Eric.Wouters - 2026-07-31

great project for 3D printer lovers.

BTW what is your station number ? You might change color Rolleyes

RE: 3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - ArneHude - 2026-07-31

(2026-07-31, 16:49)Eric.Wouters Wrote: great project for 3D printer lovers.

BTW what is your station number ? You might change color Rolleyes

3276 ;-)

RE: 3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - doesbaddel - 2026-07-31

Hello Arne.

I'm still waiting for the Feritt antennas and my build is also in full swing. So far, my station has only been online for testing purposes. Your 3D
Box looks very interesting! I'll check it out. Thanks for sharing. I might have some questions and ideas later on  Smile

Marcel

RE: 3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - ArneHude - 2026-08-01

(2026-07-31, 20:35)fuchswetter Wrote: Hello Arne.

I'm still waiting for the Feritt antennas and my build is also in full swing. So far, my station has only been online for testing purposes. Your 3D
Box looks very interesting! I'll check it out. Thanks for sharing. I might have some questions and ideas later on  Smile

Marcel

Feel free to ask and let me know if you need something modified.
What i have encountered is that in my region (big city) its better to use large loop antennas.

RE: 3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - doesbaddel - 2026-08-04

Hi Arne.

Since I don’t have my own 3D printer and I’m not very familiar with them, I had a friend in mind who could handle this for me.

He took a look at them today and said they’re SolidWorks files. Apparently, he can’t work with those. He said he needs STL files. He mentioned that there are SolidWorks converters, but they cost money. My question is, do you happen to have a way to convert these files? Or is there another way he can send the files to a 3D printer and use them?

Marcel

RE: 3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - ArneHude - 2026-08-05

Hi fuchswetter,

i just did add the stl files directly to the zip archive you can download add makerworld :-).

RE: 3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - doesbaddel - 2026-08-06

Arne, thank you so much for taking the time to provide the new files. I've forwarded them to my friend. I'll let you know how it goes.

RE: 3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - doesbaddel - 2026-08-09

   

The first part is done. Arne, may I ask how you handled the network connection? The distance between the preamplifier and the network jack is quite short. In your photos, it looks like you used an extremely short network cable.

RE: 3D-Print-Enclosure for Ferrite Antenna - dl1esk - 2026-08-12

Hi Arne can you make also downloadable Step Files?!
Hi Arne,

can you make a Version of your Box where the Ferrite`s are horizontal?! one to North/South and the other to East/West ?!